Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard has emerged as a notable “sleeper” prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. After transferring from Duke, Leonard led the Fighting Irish to the national championship game, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. He completed 66.7% of his passes for 2,861 yards and 21 touchdowns, while also rushing for 906 yards and 17 scores, setting a school record for quarterback rushing yards .
Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 216 pounds, Leonard possesses a strong arm and impressive mobility. His athleticism allows him to extend plays and execute designed runs effectively. However, scouts have noted areas for improvement, particularly in his pocket presence and consistency with downfield throws . ESPN’s Jordan Reid ranks him as the 12th quarterback in the draft class, projecting him as a late Day 3 pick or potential undrafted free agent .
Despite these critiques, Leonard’s leadership and competitive nature have caught the attention of NFL teams. His performance at the Senior Bowl further highlighted his potential, making him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking a developmental quarterback with upside. As the draft approaches, Leonard remains a player to watch for franchises looking to add depth and versatility to their quarterback room.
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